Best Places to visit in Shimla Hill Station in 2025
- Divya Suryavanshi
- May 6
- 7 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Situated in the center of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is referred to as the "Queen of Hills" due to its magnificent scenery, colonial charm, and lively culture. As one of India's most popular hill stations, Shimla attracts millions of tourists yearly, from honeymooners to adventure seekers. In 2025, Shimla continues to shine as a must-visit destination for Indian travelers looking for a mix of nature, history, and adventure.
Whether escaping city life's hustle or chasing snowfall, this Shimla travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Shimla in 2025?
Shimla is a gem in the Himalayas, offering something for every traveler. Situated in the center of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is referred to as the "Queen of Hills" due to its magnificent scenery, colonial charm, and lively culture.
Stunning Landscapes: Snow-capped peaks, pine forests, and apple orchards create picture-perfect views.
Pleasant Weather: The cool weather of Shimla provides a welcome break from the sweltering summers in India.
Colonial Heritage: Structures from the British era, such as the Viceregal Lodge and Christ Church, provide historical context.
Adventure Opportunities: For those seeking thrills, there is paragliding, skiing, and trekking.
Cultural Richness: Local markets, Himachali festivals, and traditional cuisine offer an authentic experience.
Family-friendly: Shimla is a great getaway for singles, couples, and families due to its accessibility and safety.
Snowfall Magic: A snowy paradise is promised during winter travel (December–February).
Shimla is a popular destination for Indian tourists in 2025 because of its unique combination of modern conveniences and scenic beauty.
Best Time to Visit Shimla
The best time to visit Shimla depends on your tastes because the city's charm changes with the seasons. Here is a thorough explanation:
Summer (March to June)
Weather: 15°C–25°C, pleasant and sunny.
Why Visit: Ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities like horse riding. Perfect for families and couples.
Highlights: Clear views of the Himalayas and vibrant festivals like the Summer Festival.
Crowds: High, so book hotels early
Monsoon (July to September)
Weather: 10°C–20°C, heavy rainfall, and lush greenery.
Why Visit: Fewer tourists, cheaper hotels, and scenic waterfalls.
Challenges: Risk of landslides and roadblocks, so check weather updates.
Tip: Carry raincoats and umbrellas.
Winter (October to February)
Weather: 0°C–10°C, snowfall in December–January.
Why Visit: Perfect for snow lovers, honeymooners, and winter sports like skiing in Kufri.
Highlights: Snow-covered landscapes, cozy vibes, and New Year celebrations.
Tip: Pack heavy woollen and non-slip shoes.
Best Pick for 2025: Visit in December–January for snowfall or April–May for pleasant weather and clear skies.
Top 7 Places to Visit in Shimla
Shimla is packed with attractions that blend nature, history, and spirituality. Here are the top 7 Shimla tourist places to explore in 2025:
The Mall Road
What to Expect: A bustling street with shops, cafes, and colonial-era buildings.
Why Visit: Perfect for evening strolls, shopping for woolens, and tasting local snacks like momos or hot chai.
Highlights: Gaiety Theatre, Scandal Point, and street food stalls.
Entry: Free.
Advice: For a lively atmosphere, go in the evening.
Jakhoo Temple(Lord Hanuman Temple)
What to Expect: A hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman with a 108-foot statue.
Why Visit: Offers spiritual peace and panoramic Himalayan views. A short trek adds adventure.
Highlights: Monkeys (be cautious with food) and sunrise views.
Entry: Free.
Distance: 2 km from Mall Road.
Kufri
What to Expect: A snowy hill station with adventure activities.
Why Visit: Famous for skiing, snowboarding, and horse riding in winter. The Himalayan Nature Park is a bonus.
Highlights: Mahasu Peak and snow games.
Distance: 16 km from Shimla.
Cost: ₹500–₹2000 for activities.
Christ Church
What to Expect: A historic church built in 1857, known for its neo-Gothic architecture.
Why Visit: A peaceful spot for photos and learning about Shimla's colonial past.
Highlights: Stained glass windows and evening light-ups.
Entry: Free.
Location: Near Mall Road.
Viceroy Lodge(Rashtrapati Niwas)
What to Expect: A grand British-era mansion with museums and lush gardens.
Why Visit: Explore India's history, including the 1947 partition talks.
Highlights: Guided tours and a photo gallery.
Entry Fee: ₹50–₹100.
Location: 3 km from Mall Road.
Annandale
What to Expect: A scenic ground surrounded by forests, home to a golf course and Army Heritage Museum.
Why Visit: Great for history buffs and picnics.
Highlights: Military artifacts and Himalayan views.
Entry: Free for the ground; museum fees apply.
Distance: 4 km from Shimla.
Chadwick Falls
What to Expect: A 100-meter waterfall amidst dense forests.
Why Visit: Ideal for nature lovers and trekkers. Best during monsoon for full flow.
Highlights: A 6-km trek from Shimla.
Entry: Free.
Distance: 7 km from Shimla.
Exciting Things to Do in Shimla
Shimla offers a range of activities to make your 2025 trip unforgettable. Here are the top things to do in Shimla:
Shop at Mall Road and Lakkar Bazaar: Buy Himachali shawls, wooden crafts, and souvenirs. Bargain for the best deals.
Trek to Chadwick Falls or Tara Devi: Enjoy scenic trails through pine forests. Hire a local guide for safety (₹500–₹1000).
Ski or Snowboard in Kufri: Winter visitors can try snow sports (₹1000–₹3000 per session).
Ride the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train: A UNESCO World Heritage experience with 102 tunnels and stunning views, perfect for Instagram.
Explore Local Festivals: Attend the Shimla Summer Festival (May) or Winter Carnival (December) for cultural shows and food.
Photography at Scandal Point: Capture the iconic Ridge area with Christ Church in the backdrop.
Relax at Cafe Simla Times: Enjoy coffee with Himalayan views on Mall Road (₹200–₹500 per person).
Where to Stay in Shimla
Shimla offers accommodations for every budget. Here are the best stay options for 2025:
Luxury Hotels (₹5000–₹15,000 per night)
The Oberoi Cecil: A heritage hotel with colonial charm and spa facilities.
Wildflower Hall: Offers luxury with Himalayan views.
Why Choose: Perfect for honeymooners or special occasions.
Mid-Range-Hotels(₹2000–₹5,000 per night)
Hotel Combermere: Near Mall Road with modern amenities.
Snow King Retreat: Scenic views and cozy rooms.
Why Choose: Great for families and couples seeking comfort.
Budget Hotels and Homestays (₹800–₹2000 per night)
YMCA Shimla: Affordable and centrally located.
Local Homestays: Stay with Himachali families for a cultural experience.
Why Choose: Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.
Camping
Try glamping in Mashobra or Fagu (10–15 km from Shimla) for ₹1500–₹4000 per night.
What to Eat in Shimla
Shimla's food scene is a treat for foodies. Here are must-try Himachali dishes and where to find them:
Dham: A traditional platter with rice, dal, and curries. Try at Hotel Holiday Home (₹300–₹500).
Sidu: Steamed bread with ghee or curry. Available at local dhabas (₹100–₹200).
Chha Gosht: Spicy lamb curry, a Himachali specialty. Find at Ashiana Restaurant on Mall Road (₹400–₹600).
Apple-Based Desserts: Apple pie or jam from local cafes like Wake and Bake (₹150–₹300).
Street Food: Enjoy momos, Maggi, and roasted corn at Mall Road stalls (₹50–₹150).
Vegetarian Tip: Most restaurants offer veg and Jain options, especially at Mall Road eateries.
Budget Travel Tips for Shimla Hill Station
A Shimla trip can be affordable with thoughtful planning. Here are budget travel tips for 2025:
Travel Off-Season: The monsoon season (July to September) has fewer tourists and cheaper hotel rates.
Book Early: Reserve flights, trains, or hotels 2–3 months in advance.
Choose Budget Stays: Opt for guesthouses or homestays over luxury hotels.
Eat at Dhabas: Local eateries serve tasty meals for ₹100–₹300 per person.
Use Public Transport: HRTC buses or shared taxis are cheaper than private cabs (₹500–₹1000 vs. ₹3000–₹5000).
Visit Free Attractions: Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, and Christ Church have no entry fees.
Group Travel: Share taxi or tour costs with friends to save money.
How to Reach Shimla
Shimla is easily accessible from major Indian cities. Here's a detailed guide on how to reach Shimla in 2025:
By Air
Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (23 km from Shimla).
Flights: Daily flights from Delhi (1 hour, ₹5,000–₹10,000) and Chandigarh (30 minutes, ₹4,000–₹8,000).
Post-Arrival: Take a taxi to Shimla (₹800–₹1500).
By Train
Nearest Station: Kalka (90 km from Shimla).
Trains from Delhi: Shatabdi Express (4 hours, ₹800–₹1500).
Kalka-Shimla Toy Train: A 5–6 hour scenic ride with 102 tunnels (₹300–₹1000).
Tip: Book toy train tickets 1–2 months in advance.
By Road
From Delhi: 340 km, 8–10 hours by bus or car.
HRTC Buses: ₹500–₹1000 (Volvo or deluxe).
Private Taxis: ₹3000–₹5000.
From Chandigarh: 110 km, 3–4 hours (₹300–₹700 by bus).
Self-Drive: National Highway 5 is well-maintained but has sharp curves.
Packing Tips for Shimla
Packing smart ensures a comfortable Shimla trip. Here's what to pack for 2025:
Clothing
Summer: Light jackets, t-shirts, and comfortable pants.
Winter: Heavy woolens, thermal wear, gloves, scarves, and waterproof jackets.
Monsoon: Raincoats, umbrellas, and non-slip shoes.
Essentials
Sunscreen and sunglasses (UV rays are strong).
Moisturizer for dry skin in winter.
Power bank for long outings.
Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated.
For Adventure
Trekking shoes for trails like Chadwick Falls.
Backpack for day trips to Kufri or Mashobra.
Documents: Carry ID proof, hotel bookings, and train/flight tickets.
Advice: Bring layers so you can adapt to Shimla's fluctuating climate, particularly during the winter.
Conclusion
Shimla is a popular travel destination for Indians in 2025 because of its natural beauty, adventure, and cultural charm. This hill station offers everything, from skiing in Kufri to exploring Mall Road. Use our Shimla travel guide to plan an affordable trip, see the must-see sights, and savor Himachali cuisine. Shimla has something to offer everyone, whether you're looking for a summer vacation or a winter experience. Make travel plans right away to experience the magic of the Himalayas!
FAQs About the best places to visit in Shimla Hill Station
Q1: Is Shimla Hill Station safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Shimla Hill Station is safe for solo travelers, including women, due to its tourist-friendly environment and good police presence. Stick to well-lit areas like Mall Road at night and book accommodations through trusted platforms.
Q2: When is the best time to see snowfall in Shimla Hill Station?
The best time for snowfall is December to January. Kufri, 16 km from Shimla Hill Station, is the prime spot for snow activities like skiing.
Q3: How many days are enough to explore Shimla Hill Station?
A 3–4 day trip is ideal to cover major attractions like Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, and Viceroy Lodge. Add 1–2 days for nearby spots like Mashobra or Naldehra.
Q4: Is the Kalka-Shimla toy train worth it?
Absolutely! The Kalka-Shimla toy train is a UNESCO World Heritage experience, offering scenic views through 102 tunnels.
Q5: Are there budget-friendly hotels in Shimla Hill Station?
Yes, budget hotels and homestays like YMCA Shimla or local Airbnb options cost ₹800–₹2000 per night.
Q6: What are the must-try foods in Shimla Hill Station?
Try Himachali dishes like dham, sidu, and chha gosht. Don’t miss street food like momos and apple-based desserts at Mall Road cafes.
Q7: Can I visit Shimla Hill Station during the monsoon?
Yes, but be cautious of heavy rainfall and potential landslides (July–September). Monsoon offers lush greenery and lower costs, but carry rain gear and check road conditions.
Kommentare